Riam Kanan Reservoir

Riam Kanan Reservoir is a large artificial reservoir in Aranio District, Banjar Regency, South Kalimantan, Indonesia, about 60 km northeast of Banjarmasin. Created by damming the Riam Kanan River and completed in 1973, it serves hydroelectric power generation, irrigation and flood control. Surrounded by the Meratus Mountains, the reservoir features forested hills, scattered islands and floating villages and is a popular nature and boating destination.

Visitors can expect a wide expanse of water surrounded by green hills of the Meratus range with scattered islands and peninsulas. Access to most scenic points is by chartered motorboat from Aranio. Visitors can see the dam structure, hydroelectric facilities from a distance, island viewpoints such as Matang Kaladan and Pinus Island, floating houses and Banjar villages like Tiwingan Lama, and open water views suitable for sightseeing and photography.

Constructed on the Riam Kanan River with work starting in the 1960s and completed in 1973, the reservoir and its dam were built to supply hydroelectric power through the Riam Kanan Hydroelectric Power Plant, provide irrigation and control flooding in Banjar Regency. The impoundment created a large lake that submerged former settlements and formed new island communities.

The reservoir is surrounded by Banjar communities such as Tiwingan Lama that maintain river-based livelihoods, floating houses, traditional wooden boats and local culinary traditions. Islands in the reservoir have been developed for community-based tourism reflecting Banjar culture and rural life in South Kalimantan.